Vertebral body tethering, also known as anterior scoliosis correction, is a minimally invasive scoliosis surgery that offers significant benefits over spinal fusion, according to Juan Rodriguez-Olaverri, MD, PhD, director of early-onset scoliosis at NYU Langone in New York City.
"With VBT, the spine can continue to move and bend, allowing greater comfort and freedom of movement, maintaining the quality of life these patients had before surgery," Dr. Rodriguez-Olaverri said in a Dec. 8 news release. "Unlike traditional spine fusion, it leaves future treatment options on the table, if needed."
The technique involves growth modulation, which tensions and gains correction of the curve, while maintaining flexibility and growth of the spine. Surgeons approach the anterior spine through the thoracic cavity, sparing muscles and joining the vertebrae with a flexible polymer cord, or tether.
Titanium screws are placed on the side of the spine and anchored with the tether along the other side. When the tether is pulled tight, it compresses the adjacent screws to help straighten the spine.
The FDA approved the first spinal tether system for pediatric patients with idiopathic scoliosis in August 2019. Designed by Zimmer Biomet, the Tether System, is being evaluated through a patient registry to assess its long-term performance.